SPF, DKIM, and DMARC: the Email Security Trio
To effectively protect corporate email, it's essential to implement three key technologies that work together to ensure message authenticity, integrity, and control.
SPF ➤ First line of defense
Sender Policy Framework (SPF) allows domain owners to specify which mail servers are authorized to send emails on behalf of their domain. Receiving servers verify if the sender’s IP address is on the list. If not, the message may be rejected or flagged as suspicious.
DKIM ➤ Digital email signature
DomainKeys Identified Mail (DKIM) adds a cryptographic signature to email headers. This ensures that the message hasn't been altered in transit and confirms it was sent from the stated domain.
DMARC ➤ Strategic policy enforcement
Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting and Conformance (DMARC) defines how to handle messages that fail SPF or DKIM checks. It also provides detailed reports to monitor domain misuse, offering visibility and control.
Important note
Google, Yahoo, and other major providers have started requiring the implementation of SPF, DKIM, and DMARC, effectively making them mandatory to ensure proper email delivery. It’s no longer just a best practice — these standards are a necessity for safeguarding your domain’s reputation and ensuring secure communication.
How to check if your domain is protected
You can easily test your SPF, DKIM, and DMARC setup using free online tools. One of the simplest is Mail-Tester:
- Go to Mail-Tester.
- Copy the temporary email address provided.
- Send an email from your account to that address.
- Click on "Check your score".
- Scroll down to view the SPF, DKIM, and DMARC results.
The process is free, fast, and gives you an immediate overview of your email protection level.
Need support?
The Utixo team can help you properly configure SPF, DKIM, and DMARC to ensure maximum security for your business communications.
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